Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson has sent letters to over a dozen leading technology companies urging compliance with the Take It Down Act (TIDA) by May 19, 2026. The law requires covered platforms to establish procedures for victims, including children, to request removal of intimate photos or videos shared without their consent.
Requirements Under the Take It Down Act
Signed into law last year by former President Donald J. Trump with support from former First Lady Melania Trump, the Take It Down Act imposes strict obligations on a range of online services. Platforms covered by TIDA must provide clear and conspicuous notices about the image removal process. Upon receiving a valid request, they must remove the nonconsensual content and all identical copies within 48 hours.
The definition of “covered platforms” includes social media networks, messaging services, image and video sharing sites, and gaming platforms. Companies receiving the letters include Amazon, Alphabet, Apple, Automattic, Bumble, Discord, Match Group, Meta, Microsoft, Pinterest, Reddit, SmugMug, Snapchat, TikTok, and X.
FTC Enforcement and Guidance
Chairman Ferguson emphasized the agency’s commitment to enforcing compliance, stating, “We stand ready to monitor compliance, investigate violations, and enforce the Take It Down Act.” The FTC has also issued guidance to help companies prepare their compliance procedures in advance of the deadline.
Ferguson highlighted the FTC’s prioritization of protecting vulnerable populations, especially children, from the harms of nonconsensual image sharing, and acknowledged the First Lady’s leadership on related children’s issues.
Why it matters
The Take It Down Act represents a significant step in addressing nonconsensual intimate image distribution, offering victims a faster and clearer path to content removal. As these platforms are widely used by millions, including minors, rapid compliance is essential to protect privacy and reduce harm from this form of abuse. Noncompliance with the law carries penalties enforceable by the FTC.
Sources
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